On Sunday, August 11th, United Neighbors of the 35th Ward engaged with ward residents, specifically in West Logan Square, to introduce our organization and discuss pressing local issues. This was the first of a series of Community Canvasses that will take place during the summer and fall aimed at understanding the issues that are most important to our neighbors and building stronger relationships with our community.
The first Community Canvass provided an invaluable opportunity to connect, particularly with Latino/a/x residents who represent a significant portion of the ward’s population (Latino/a/xs make up 53.1% of the ward and 29.2% of Chicago).* During our conversations at the door, we gained crucial insights into the challenges these neighbors face, including housing insecurity due to rising rental costs, high-speed traffic management, access to mental health resources, anxiety over safety in the neighborhood school, and accessibility to free English-language classes. Many of the neighbors we spoke to are Spanish speakers, underscoring the need for language accessibility.
It was not a surprise that housing insecurity emerged as a predominant concern. Our neighbors voiced frustration over the rising costs of living fueled by rapid gentrification in the area and inquired about opportunities and information about pathways to homeownership. This has been a pressing issue in our ward for years. A 2023 report by DePaul University’s Institute for Housing showed that Logan Square and Avondale are losing the most affordable housing in the city. To help combat this issue, our electeds, Alderpersons Carlos Ramírez Rosa (35th), Jessie Fuentes (26th), Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez (33rd), Daniel La Spata (1st), Ruth Cruz (30th), and Felix Cardona (31st) introduced the Northwest Preservation Ordinance, an anti-gentrification ordinance aimed at protecting two, three, and four flats in the northwest side.
Overall, this was a fulfilling experience, underscoring the need for targeted community support. Our next Community Canvass will be on Saturday, August 31st at 11:00am. We hope you can join us!
*Sources: https://www.aldermancarlosrosa.org/ward35; https://chirecoveryplan.com/geography/ward-35/